Become a CAJA Volunteer this Fall.
CAJA of Madison County is accepting applications for its fall pre-service training class. If becoming a volunteer has been sitting in the back of your mind, here is what you need to know before you apply.
Who Can Apply
The requirements are shorter than most people expect:
- At least 21 years old
- Willing to complete a background check
- Able to give about 10 hours a month
- Ready to commit for at least one year
You do not need a law degree or a social work background. Pre-service training prepares new volunteers for the role and introduces the court and child welfare systems they will work within.
What Pre-Service Training Covers
Every new volunteer completes CAJA’s 35-hour, four-week pre-service training before being sworn in and matched with a case. The course covers the juvenile court process, court reports, and trauma-informed advocacy.
Fall Training Details
Training begins Monday, October 12 through Friday, November 6.
- Application deadline: Monday, October 5th 2026
- Format: In-person
- Training dates:
- Monday, October 12: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Thursday, October 15: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Monday, October 19: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Thursday, October 22: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Monday, October 26: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Thursday, October 29: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Friday, October 30: 8:45am – 11:00am (Court Observation)
- Monday, November 2: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Thursday, November 5: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Friday, November 6: 8:30am-10:00am (Swearing-In Ceremony)
The application, interview, and background check must be completed before training begins. Applying early leaves time for each step.
Why the Timing Matters
Training takes four weeks, followed by swearing-in and case assignment. Starting with the fall class means you can complete that preparation sooner and be ready when CAJA needs another advocate.
Apply Before the Deadline
If you meet the requirements above and can commit about 10 hours a month for at least a year, apply to become a volunteer. The first step is the application; CAJA will guide you through what comes next as you prepare to help Change a Child’s Story®.
CAJA of Madison County — I am for the Child®
